I happen to like the appearance of open grain so I would be happy with
an oil finish or a gel poly, no filler for me thanks. You will not
get oak to have a 'mirror' finish without using a filler so if you
want that smooth look and feel, fill first, then stain, then I would
use the gel poly to get a nice shine and more protection.

Woodchip

(v.b.) wrote in message . com...
Hi all,

this is for a rather large speaker project due to be completed
shortly. i know there is a tonne of information out there but as they
say, ..every question is unique.


situation:
i want to use a rubbed finish in this case, as i live in an apartment
and would rather avoid the hassles of brushed or sprayed finishes if i
can avoid it.

(red) oak is a rather open grained wood. i'm thinking of finishing it
with tung, but am worried about how to conceal the open grains. i
tried a couple of coats of the oil on a piece of scrap and while the
wood has started turning golden, the surface is still somewhat rough.
i know about sanding between coats etc ... but will this ever get a
smooth finish (after a dozen coats or so)?

if i use a filler to close out the grains, can i still use tung oil
after that?

if not tung oil, can i use wipe on poly with the filler?

also, if i want to stain the cabinets (after using a filler, of
course), can i seal it with poly ( i know tung oil can't be used as a
sealer)


thanks, vin